Overview & Reviews

Since its launch in the mid-1990s, the Avalon has been Toyota's main full-size sedan. It has always been a solid performer, with standard V6 power, lots of interior space and a reputation for reliability.

Early Avalons were often criticized for their humdrum style, especially the first-generation model. But the more recent Avalons, thanks to their more upscale design, have consistently been among the best choices available for a large sedan. Overall, a new or used Avalon is certainly worth considering.

Current Toyota Avalon
Four trims comprise the Avalon lineup: XLE, XLE Premium, XLE Touring and Limited. For each, you'll find a smooth 3.5-liter V6 with 268 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission. Together, they provide strong performance along with impressive fuel economy.

Standard feature highlights of the XLE include leather upholstery, power and heated front seats, keyless ignition and entry, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker audio system. The XLE Premium adds a sunroof and a few other minor perks, while the Touring gains 18-inch wheels (versus 17s), a navigation system and a smartphone app integration system. The Limited's features include xenon headlights, upgraded leather upholstery, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats and an 11-speaker JBL premium sound system.

In reviews, we've been impressed by the Avalon's upscale cabin quality, roomy seating and large trunk. There's plenty of power on tap and the precise steering has a firm, responsive feel to it. Whether threading its way through a tight mountain pass or cruising serenely on the open freeway, this accommodating full-size sedan provides a very appealing blend of comfort and useful performance. The only possible downside is that the car's ride quality isn't quite as plush as before, which could alienate previous Avalon buyers. But overall, this Avalon's superior road manners will likely appeal to the vast majority of large sedan shoppers.

Used Toyota Avalon Models
Redesigned for 2013, the latest generation of the Toyota Avalon has a more premium look and feel than the previous one. Under the sleek new skin is a stiffer structure that improves both ride and handling qualities. Since its debut, this version has seen only a minor shuffling of standard and optional features.

Developed and built with American roads in mind, the previous, third-generation Toyota Avalon ran from 2005-'12. Initially, four trims were offered: XL, Touring, XLS and Limited. The Touring was unique in that it was a sporty Avalon, with 17-inch wheels, a more firmly tuned suspension, an all-black interior and aluminum trim. "Sporty" is a relative term, though, since even this Avalon was tuned more for comfort than zipping through corners. All Avalons had a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 and it drove the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.

Unlike earlier-generation Avalons, this one couldn't be had with a front bench seat. But there was ample room in the front and plenty of legroom to stretch out in back, where a nearly flat floor allowed three adults to sit comfortably. The materials were mostly first-rate and build quality was excellent overall.

Changes throughout this generation were minimal. The 3.5-liter V6 was initially rated for 280 hp, but revised SAE rating procedures dropped that to 268 hp, starting with the 2006 model year. Avalons from 2005-'07 had a five-speed automatic instead of the later six-speed, so expect slightly less performance and fuel economy from these earlier models. For 2009, stability control became standard across the board and the Touring trim was dropped. For 2011, Toyota updated the Avalon's exterior styling and dashboard design. The XLS trim level was also dropped, leaving the base Avalon and the Limited.

In road tests and reviews, we found the third-gen Avalon to be an excellent large sedan. Highway driving in particular is luxurious, making long road trips a pleasure. The V6 engine pulls smoothly and powerfully, while posting impressive fuel economy numbers. This Avalon handles adequately, but mainly this is a full-size car tuned for comfort rather than athleticism. Downsides are few – the rear seat doesn't fold down to expand luggage capacity and the driving demeanor is isolated and hence somewhat dull

With the second-generation Avalon, sold from 2000-'04, Toyota made a number of improvements over the first version. Available in XL and XLS trims, the second-gen Avalon was roomier and more technologically advanced. Optional stability control and brake assist features were added to improve safety. The 3.0-liter V6 was equipped with variable valve timing, providing a modest power increase over the previous generation with a peak of 210 hp. In road tests, we commented that the second-gen Avalon wasn't a particularly interesting car to drive, but it countered with plenty of dependability, comfort and smoothness. A curvaceous dashboard design further distinguished this model from its relatively staid competitors.

The original Toyota Avalon, sold from 1995-'99, came in two trims (XL and XLS) and had a 192-hp 3.0-liter V6 and a four-speed automatic transmission. Minor engine revisions for the 1997 model year saw the output of the V6 increase to 200 hp.

For the first two generations, Toyota did not make many significant changes. Therefore, used-Avalon shoppers should focus more on the condition and mileage of the vehicle than a specific year of production.

User Reviews:

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  Best car ever - 2003 Toyota Avalon
  By Polo - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Best Car I have ever owned, 7-8k less than Lexus es300 but just as good. I would definitely recommend this vehicle.

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  Sips gas, limo like back seat, great family car! - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By blackpoint - October 14 - 10:08 am

  As a young family of 3 we wanted to get a car where the kids elbows dont touch which sparks arguments and they cant kick the front seats which drives me nutty. Low MPG SUVs were out and putting money into a dreadful minivan felt as good as paying federal taxes. We are in our 30s and this car seemed out of our age group but the Touring edition adds some youthful style and lets face it, still better looking than a minivan. The reclining rear seats are great for the kids. Smooth and quiet ride even at 90,000 miles and about 31 MPG on the highway. Rides equal to a newer vehicle but we only paid about $13,000. Not bad for a large family car with leather, heated seats, and a moonroof.

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  Love it! - 2011 Toyota Avalon
  By Jimbob - October 14 - 10:00 am

  Just returned from a round trip to Illinois and driving the speed limits, averaged 33 mpg, which includes a traffic tie up in the Twin Cities, and side winds the entire trip. Couldnt be any better! Fantastic ride and handling!

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  The Cheaper lexus - 2002 Toyota Avalon
  By fast_chip - October 12 - 2:33 am

  Except for the cheap "general-make" tyres the car came with this one is truly dependable.

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  05 Avalon - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By lphickey - October 10 - 11:40 pm

  Sleek new body style, interior well appointed and controls in easy reach, far above the 2000 I traded. Toyota has taken the Avalon to a new plateau.

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  DRONE Noise - 2009 Toyota Avalon
  By piercy42 - October 10 - 10:02 am

  My 2009 Avalon XLS have an annoying DRONE from the rear. The dealer tells me it is the tires. Im on my 3rd set (replaced because of the problem, they were not worn out). Problem cotinues and seems to be getting worse. Rotating tires also does not help. It is very annoying. Also have a friend with 2009 Avalon and he has the same problem. This is my 2nd Avalon. The 1st, a 2002 was a great car.

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  This is one awesome car! - 2005 Toyota Avalon
  By Kevin Burk - October 9 - 8:16 am

  I spent the last several months researching luxury sedans..Acura, BMW, Lexus, Mercedes when my 18 yo daughter said I should see the new Avalon. This car does not disappoint, feature rich (the back seats recline!), car is larger than last years as is the interior. The ride is as smooth as the LS430. In the sedan genre this is the most bang for the buck of all that I looked into. You can pay more...get less and still not touch the beauty of this car. If you are looking do yourself a favor to check it out.

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  I LIKE AVALON. - 2000 Toyota Avalon
  By lena - October 8 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive.

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  Avalon 2006 Limited - 2006 Toyota Avalon
  By Gregory - October 5 - 9:53 am

  Purchased the Limited today, very happy with design and features. It is a huge car, no comparison in inside space with Camry. And so quiet, I had to go outside to make sure the motor is running, you cant hear a thing inside. This car can do more than I can imagine so far. Limited rules!

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  The best car Ive ever owned! - 2008 Toyota Avalon
  By snowwie - October 5 - 3:27 am

  The 2008 Toyota Avalon is the best value car in its class. The ride is very smooth & quiet. Ive test drove the Lexus GS before I test drove the avalon and I could not tell the difference in performance. The avalon has more cabin space at lower price